Hillcrest Homes supports the principle of making buildings more energy efficient and has already included a number of energy saving features into its properties, including underfloor heating, mega-flow pressurised water systems and, most recently, water reducing valves which limit the amount of water pushed through the taps without limiting the pressure.
Jonathan Hill, responsible for land and development for the company, says; “I think the industry wholeheartedly supports making buildings more energy efficient, especially considering the issue of global warming and diminishing natural resources. However these changes are likely to come at a cost and it is unrealistic to expect the industry to bear the brunt of these enforced changes.
"Some house builders may push up the price of their properties to cover the expense and they may also have to compromise on design and specification in order to meet the new regulations. However, if implemented correctly, the ongoing benefit is that new homes should be more economical to run for the occupiers with the added benefits of saving our valuable natural resources and making a significant impact on the emission of greenhouse gases. "
Jonathan believes that by consultation with the architects and developers before implementing radical changes would be a more progressive way for the government to achieve an energy efficient housing solution. He also suggests that methods of increasing energy efficiency in existing housing stock, not just new homes, should be investigated.
He says, “If the government were serious about global warming, rather than just pass the burden to developers, as they have done with affordable housing, they should look at a scheme to offer grant assistance to allow homeowners to bring their older properties up to more modern standards.”
